Digital Growth Model for Spare Parts Management
To support machine factories in their digital spare parts transformation, we have developed the Digital Growth Model. This model provides a structured approach to optimizing the management and sales of spare parts through e-commerce. It helps companies assess their current position and identify the steps needed to operate more efficiently, improve customer experience, and increase profitability.
The 6 Phases of Digital Growth
The Digital Growth Model consists of six phases, which companies can enter at different points or progress through over time. The starting point and next steps depend on the quality and availability of master data.
Depending on the level of data maturity and digital readiness, a machine factory can begin in a specific phase and then grow to the next level.
Why This Model?
The Digital Growth Model is not just a theoretical framework but a pragmatic guide based on industry best practices.
Whether you’re at the start of your digitalization journey or have already taken steps, this model helps you determine the next move.
Curious about your organization’s position? Explore the phases and take the next step in digital growth!
Spare parts
- With smart filters, parts can be easily selected
- If the EAN, OEM, or unique part name is known, products can be searched directly using the intelligent search bar
- ERP integration enables the retrieval of customer data, customer-specific pricing and inventory details
- In addition to placing orders digitally, customers can also request, process and approve quotes digitally
Installed base & machine
- After logging in, customers can view the installed base of all their machines (see image)
- For each machine, the corresponding parts are displayed
- The correct parts are always shown with customer-specific pricing and inventory levels
- f parts are customized, the price is shown as “price on request”
- This setup is ideal for service teams replacing parts on-site at customer locations
- Features include filtering, search, ERP integration, installed base management and digital order & quote flows (see spare parts slide)
Exploded views
- Technical drawings (PDF, etc.) converted into exploded views
- Interactive hotspots linked to the correct parts
- Hotspots always ensure the correct parts are selected
- Additional information can be added to hotspots, such as:
– Installation guides
– Videos
– Warranty/safety reports - Includes filtering, search, ERP integration, installed base, digital order & quote flows and installed base (see slide installed base & machine)
3D visualization
- Integration of the PLM application with the commerce platform
- 3D CAD visualizations are displayed in the webshop
- Machines can be viewed from different angles and parts can be selected
- Includes ffiltering, search, ERP integration, installed base, digital order & quote flows, installed base and exploded views (see slide “exploded views”)
Predictive Maintenance
- Automatic spare part prediction via IoT data. The portal alerts the customer when a specific part needs replacement
- Automatic restocking. The platform offers a subscription model or automatic ordering option, e.g., a customer receives the required wear parts monthly
- Data-driven purchasing advice. The portal generates a tailored purchasing advice report that can be directly converted into an order
- Includes filtering, search, ERP integration, installed base, digital order & quote flows, installed base, exploded views and 3D visualization (see slide “3D visualization”)
AI-driven
- Smart inventory optimization. The platform can adjust inventory in real-time and dynamically suggest alternatives or backorder options
- Chatbots & virtual assistants. AI chatbots can support customers 24/7 in finding the right spare parts or answering technical questions
- Visual AI for part recognition. AI can analyze images of parts, identify them instantly, and check inventory
- Includes filtering, search, ERP integration, installed base, digital order & quote flows, installed base, exploded views, 3D visualization, and predictive maintenance (see slide “predictive maintenance”)
Sign Up for the Spare Parts Webinar
Ready to transform your spare parts management into a digital-first approach?
Join us for an exclusive NL webinar on March 13.
Join us for an exclusive US webinar on March 18.
Where we’ll guide you through key steps to launch a digital platform or further expand your spare parts business digitally.
Agenda:
- Practical tips for setting up and optimizing a digital commerce platform:
– Where to start
– How to scale up
– Hybrid solutions (integrating legacy installed base with new project rollouts) - Live demo showcasing different capabilities (Basic & Advanced)
- An inspiring customer case from Ottevanger, highlighting their successful aftersales digital transformation